The Wolfgang Wirichs Foundation will also award one or more dual students with its sponsorship award trade in the coming year. This shares Dr. Siegfried Rauhut, CEO of the foundation. This year’s award winners Samra Chajic and Julian Laier had recently been awarded the price. Now the Wolfgang Wirichs Foundation is already looking at the coming year: Applications for the Wolfgang Wirichs Promotion Award Trade 2026 are already possible.

The foundation has been awarding its sponsorship award for more than 20 years. Two years ago, those responsible had decided to change the procurement guidelines and to explicitly distinguish dual students in the areas of wholesale and foreign trade, retail, e-commerce or logistics.

“This is intended to strengthen the practical relevance of our sponsorship award,” explains press spokeswoman Sigrid Baum. With success: The foundation was able to look forward to more applications in the tender phase of this year’s prize than ever. Despite the realignment, the intention of the award remains the same, adds Siegfried Rauhut: “We want to promote outstanding young people from trade and goods management.”

Applications possible by November 7th

By November 7, 2025, applications for Wolfgang Wirich’s promotional award 2026 are possible. The prerequisites are a completed training and studying with a bachelor/master’s degree with at least the grade “good”. Further information is available on the Internet at https://wirichs-stiftung.de/ Verstriftung.

Foundation and the promotional award are named after Wolfgang Wirichs (1922-2005), which is considered one of the pioneers in retail. He took over the company founded by his grandfather in 1886 and – as the first food dealer in Germany – added further company branches (hardware stores and garden centers). On the occasion of its 70th birthday, the foundation was launched in 1992.

Prize winners of the past few years

All 28 people and institutions with the Wolfgang Wirichs Promotion Prize have made significant contributions to innovation in retail as well as the increase in knowledge in practice and science of trade.

Until now, it has been awarded:

* Vocational college of the merchant school, Krefeld (2001 and 2005) * Dr. Iris Müller, Nuremberg, “The creation of price images in retail” (2002) * European University of Applied Sciences, Brühl (2003 and 2005) * Guido Palmersheim, Cologne, “Squire Management” (2004) * FFH- Institute for Market and Economic Research, Berlin (2005) * Benedikt Bartmann (University of Saarland),,

“Orientation behavior in retail” (2006)

* Klaus Helnerus (University of Cologne), “The expensive gap in the shelf” (2006) * Steffen Dölling and Falk Ritschel (Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg), “Interactive customer loyalty management in retail” (2007) * Katia Allexi (University of Cologne), “Creating for price images in stores” (2008) * Dr. Madlen Boslau (University of Göttingen), “Customer satisfaction with self -service health insurance companies in retail” (2009) * Dr. Carmen-Maria Albrecht (University of Mannheim), “Shopping stress-measurement, determinants and consequences” (2010) * Dr. Ulf-Marten Schmieder (Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, “Integrated MultiChannel Communication in Retail” (2010) * Dr. Eva Stüber (Brandenburg University of Technology (BTU) Cottbus “Buy recommendations as a personalization approach in Internet trade-An experimental analysis of acceptance using the example of the clothing industry” (2011) * Prof. (Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg), “The purchase of premium trade brands in the food retail trade-a behavioral theoretical analysis” (2012) * Dr. “Preference measurement to determine an optimal design of the homepage of an online shop” (2014) * Anne Schönborn (Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg) “the Internet as a sales channel of food retail-design options and critical analysis” (2015) * Prof. Dr. Monika Imschloß (University of Mannheim) “Multi -Sensory Marketing – An empirical study on the influence of auditive and haptic stimuli on consumer behavior” (2016) * Dr. Jessica Fleer (Technical University of Braunschweig) “Customer satisfaction and customer loyalty in multi -channel systems of retail – a cross -process examination” (2017) * Dr. Mirja Kroschke (Westphalian Wilhelms-Universität Münster) “Mobile Advertising in Inpatient Trade. An empirical analysis of the personalization paradox” (2018) * Dr. Cecile Kornmann (Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz) “Understanding and Managing (Abive) Product Returns in Online Retailing” (2019) * Dr. Stefanie Sohn (Technical University of Braunschweig) “Mobile Online Shopping: Empirical Insights Into Consumers’ Usage of Mobile Devices for Online Shopping” (2020) * Dr. Eike Jonas Abraham (Markstones Institute of Marketing, Branding & Technology at the University of Bremen) “Influence of Retailer Brands on the image of private label Brands: An experimental analysis in the online fashion trade” (2021). * Dr. Markus Gahler (Value Based Marketing of the Faculty of Economics at the University of Augsburg) “Customer Experience: Conceptualization and Development of a Text-based and Graphical Skala” (2022). * Dr. Benedikt Brand (University of Bayreuth) “Extrinsic Information Cues for Mitigating Information Asymmetry in E-Commerce: A German-Chinese Perspective” (2023) * Melike Karagöz (Dual course / University of Applied Sciences for Economics and Management FOM, Düsseldorf) “The Influence of Gamification on the Purchase Intention in Online Fashion Retail “(2024) * Tobias Neumann (dual course / dual university Baden-Württemberg / DHBW, Mosbach)” Introduction of a live broadcast process in the customer delivery process of Stark Deutschland GmbH “(2024) * Samra Chajic (International School of Management, Munich)” Tension field of transaction costs versus and shopping experiences “(2025) * Julian Laier (Dual University of Baden-Württemberg)” Formulation and evaluation of an opportunity cost approach for operational tour planning in logistics networks with a heterogeneous fleet structure-depicted using the Trans-O-Flex Express GmbH & Co. KGAA “(2025)

(End)

Ausender: Baum-Communication Contact person: Sigrid Baum Tel.: +49 2835 44 01 24 E-Mail: sigrid.baum@baum-kommunikation.de Website: www.baum-kommunikation.de / www.wirichs-stiftung.de

date: 2025-04-27 06:28:00

Outstanding Dual Students Awarded: Recognizing Excellence in Work-Integrated Learning

Table of Contents

Outstanding Dual Students Awarded: Recognizing Excellence in Work-Integrated Learning

Dual study programs, also known as work-integrated learning, are rapidly gaining popularity as a pathway to career success. They offer a unique blend of academic learning adn hands-on professional experience, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market. Each year, numerous talented individuals excel in these demanding programs, and recognizing their achievements through awards is crucial for motivating future generations.

What are Dual Study Programs?

Before delving into the awards, it’s essential to understand the core principles of dual study programs. These programs differ significantly from conventional academic paths. They are designed to:

Integrate theory and practice: Students alternate between classroom learning and practical work experience, applying theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
Offer industry-relevant skills: The curriculum is frequently enough developed in collaboration with industry partners to ensure students acquire the skills most sought-after by employers.
Provide financial support: Many dual study programs offer a salary or stipend during the practical work phases, reducing the financial burden on students.
Increase employability: Graduates of dual study programs typically have a higher employability rate due to their practical experience and industry connections.

The Importance of Recognizing Outstanding Achievers

Awarding outstanding dual students is more than just a symbolic gesture. It serves several vital purposes:

Motivation: Public recognition motivates students to strive for excellence in both their academic studies and their work performance.
Inspiration: Award winners serve as role models for other students, inspiring them to pursue dual study programs and excel in their chosen fields.
Employer Branding: Companies that partner with dual study programs benefit from the positive publicity associated with the awards, enhancing their employer brand.
Program enhancement: The awards process can provide valuable feedback to universities and companies, helping them to improve the quality and relevance of their dual study programs.
Network Building: Award ceremonies provide opportunities for students, employers, and educators to connect and build valuable professional networks.

Selection Criteria for Outstanding Dual Student Awards

The criteria used to select outstanding dual students typically encompass a range of factors, including:

Academic Performance: GPA, grades in relevant courses, and overall academic standing are crucial considerations.
Practical Work Performance: evaluations from supervisors, performance in work projects, and contribution to the company are assessed.
Innovation and Creativity: students who demonstrate innovation and creativity in their work are often highly regarded.
Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to identify and solve problems effectively is an important indicator of potential success.
Teamwork and Communication Skills: The ability to work effectively in teams and communicate effectively with colleagues is essential in today’s workplace.
Commitment and Dedication: demonstrated commitment to both academic studies and work responsibilities is highly valued.
Leadership Potential: Evidence of leadership potential, such as taking initiative and mentoring others, is frequently enough considered.
Community Involvement: Participation in extracurricular activities and community service projects can also be a factor.

Examples of Award Categories

To recognize different areas of achievement,awards are often categorized based on specific criteria. Some common award categories include:

Academic Excellence Award: Recognizes students with outstanding academic performance.
Practical Excellence Award: Recognizes students who have made meaningful contributions to their companies through their work.
innovation award: Recognizes students who have developed innovative solutions to business challenges.
leadership Award: Recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills.
Sustainability Award: Recognizes students who have contributed to sustainable business practices.
Diversity and Inclusion Award: Recognizes students who have promoted diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Overall Excellence Award: Recognizes the most outstanding dual student across all categories.

Case Studies of Award-Winning Dual Students

To illustrate the impact of dual study programs and the achievements of outstanding students, let’s examine a few case studies:

Case Study 1: Anna Müller (Engineering)

Anna, a dual student in mechanical engineering, won the “Innovation Award” for developing a new algorithm that improved the efficiency of a manufacturing process by 15%. Her project not only saved the company significant costs but also reduced it’s environmental impact. Anna is now a full-time engineer at the company and is leading a team of engineers on a new research and development project.

Case Study 2: david Schmidt (business Administration)

David, a dual student in business administration, received the “Leadership Award” for his exceptional leadership skills during a challenging project. He effectively managed a team of colleagues to successfully launch a new product, exceeding sales targets by 20%. David’s leadership skills were recognized by senior management,and he was offered a management position upon graduation.

Case Study 3: Sarah Weber (Information Technology)

Sarah, a dual student in information technology, was awarded the “Academic Excellence Award” for her outstanding academic performance. Despite the demanding workload of a dual study program, she consistently achieved top grades in all her courses. Sarah’s academic achievements, combined with her practical experience, made her a highly sought-after candidate, and she received multiple job offers upon graduation.

Benefits for Companies Participating in Dual Study Programs

Companies that partner with universities to offer dual study programs reap numerous benefits:

Access to talent: Dual study programs provide a pipeline of highly skilled and motivated young professionals.
Reduced recruitment costs: By hiring graduates of their dual study programs, companies can significantly reduce recruitment costs.
Increased employee loyalty: Dual study students are more likely to stay with the company after graduation, leading to increased employee loyalty.
Innovation and fresh perspectives: Dual study students bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the workplace.
Enhanced employer branding: Partnering with dual study programs enhances a company’s employer brand and attracts top talent.

Benefit	Description
Talent Pipeline	Access to skilled, motivated students
Cost Savings	Reduced recruitment expenses
Loyalty	Increased employee retention
Innovation	Fresh ideas and perspectives
Brand Boost	Enhanced employer reputation

First-Hand Experience: A Dual Student’s Viewpoint

Let’s hear from a recent graduate of a dual study program about their experiences:

“My experience in the dual study program was invaluable. Balancing academic learning with practical work experience was challenging, but it prepared me exceptionally well for my career. I learned how to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems, and I developed strong teamwork and communication skills. The financial support provided by the program also made it possible for me to focus on my studies and work without financial worries. Winning the ‘Practical Excellence Award’ was a great honor, and it opened doors to new opportunities. I highly recommend dual study programs to anyone who wants to gain a competitive edge in the job market.” – Markus L., Dual study Graduate

Practical Tips for Dual Students to Excel

Here are some practical tips for dual students who want to excel in their programs and increase their chances of winning an award:

Plan and prioritize: Develop a detailed study plan and prioritize tasks to manage your time effectively.
Seek support: Don’t hesitate to seek help from professors, supervisors, and mentors when needed.
Network: Attend industry events and network with professionals in your field.
Be proactive: Take initiative and seek out opportunities to learn and grow.
Document your achievements: Keep a record of your accomplishments and contributions to the company.
seek feedback: Regularly ask for feedback from your supervisors and professors to identify areas for improvement.
Stay organized: Keep your notes, assignments, and work documents organized.
Develop strong communication skills: Practice your communication skills, both written and oral.
Maintain a healthy work-life balance: Make time for hobbies and activities outside of work and studies to prevent burnout.

Universities and Companies Collaboration – A Key to Success

The success of dual study programs hinges on strong partnerships between universities and companies.Effective collaboration ensures that the curriculum is relevant to industry needs and that students receive high-quality training and mentorship. This collaboration can take various forms:

Curriculum Development: Companies provide input into the design of the curriculum to ensure it aligns with industry standards.
Guest Lectures: Industry experts deliver guest lectures and workshops to provide students with real-world insights.
Mentorship Programs: Company employees mentor dual study students, providing guidance and support.
Joint Research Projects: Universities and companies collaborate on research projects, providing students with opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research.
Internship Opportunities: Companies offer internship opportunities to dual study students, providing them with valuable practical experience.

The Future of Dual Study Programs

Dual study programs are poised for continued growth as employers increasingly recognize the value of work-integrated learning. As technology continues to evolve and the job market becomes more competitive, the demand for graduates with both academic knowledge and practical experience will only increase. The future of dual study programs will likely involve:

Increased adoption of online learning technologies: Online learning platforms will be used to deliver academic content more flexibly and efficiently.
greater emphasis on personalized learning: Programs will be tailored to meet the individual needs and interests of students.
Expansion into new industries and fields: Dual study programs will expand into emerging industries and fields, such as artificial intelligence, data science, and renewable energy.
Stronger international partnerships: Universities and companies will collaborate across national borders to offer global dual study programs.

Future Trend	Description
Online Learning	Increased use of digital platforms
Personalization	Tailored programs for each student
Expansion	New industries and fields
Globalization	International partnerships

Promoting Dual Study Programs to Attract Top Talent

To attract top talent to dual study programs, universities and companies need to actively promote the benefits of these programs. This can be achieved through:

Targeted marketing campaigns: Reach out to high school students and university applicants through online and offline marketing channels.
Open days and information sessions: Organize open days and information sessions to provide prospective students with an overview of the programs.
Success stories: Showcase the success stories of dual study graduates to inspire others.
Scholarships and financial aid: Offer scholarships and financial aid to make dual study programs more accessible.
Partnerships with schools: Collaborate with schools to promote dual study programs to their students.

Keep reading

Outstanding dual students are awarded